Parliament resumed on Tuesday with the Opposition calling for a discussion on the Wayanad landslide, which has claimed over 70 lives and displaced many. Following the usual Question Hour and Zero Hour, both Houses continued discussing the Union Budget for 2024-25.
The first Budget Session of the 18th Lok Sabha began on July 22, with 16 sittings planned to conclude on August 12. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her seventh consecutive Budget on July 23 for the fiscal year 2024-25, surpassing the record of former Prime Minister Morarji Desai. This was the BJP-led NDA government's first Budget since being re-elected in June.
The Congress accused the government of discrimination against Opposition-ruled States in the Budget, noting that the Finance Minister mentioned projects for only two States. On Monday, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi addressed the Lok Sabha on the Budget, while the Rajya Sabha discussed the tragic deaths of students at a Delhi IAS coaching institute.
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Upper House and Lower House Adjournment
Both the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha have been adjourned. The Rajya Sabha will reconvene on July 31 at 11 AM. Similarly, the Lok Sabha will also recommence its sessions on July 31 at 11 AM.
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Specific Issues
H.D. Devegowda on the Brahmaputra
Ex-Prime Minister and JD(S) MP H.D. Devegowda addressed the severe flooding issues caused by the Brahmaputra river. He urged the government to allocate more funds for constructing retaining walls to protect people living on both sides of the river.
Pavan Rajnimblekar on Farmers' Living Conditions
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Pavan Rajnimblekar raised concerns about the Solapur-Tuljabhavani-Dharashiv railway project. He highlighted that Dharashiv, an aspirational district with a high rate of farmer suicides, faces unfair land acquisition practices. Rajnimblekar called for the development of bullet trains and Vande Bharat trains, alongside improving farmers' living conditions. He also pointed out the delayed production at the Latur coach factory, which had been inaugurated twice before elections.
Lok Sabha Votes for Suspension of Rule 331G
In a significant move, the Lok Sabha has passed the suspension of Rule 331G via voice vote. This suspension is essential for preparing Demands for Grants across various ministries. Chairman Om Birla highlighted that the Union Budget debate extended beyond the stipulated 20 hours, with over 70 hours of discussion and contributions from more than 40 new Members of Parliament.
Questioning of RS Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar's OBC Status
Opposition MPs questioned the Other Backward Class (OBC) status of RS Chairman Jagdeep Dhankar, arguing that Jats are not recognized as OBCs. Dhankar responded by proudly affirming his Jat identity, stating that Jats are classified as OBCs in Rajasthan and are included in the Central list. BJP's Dr. K Laxman added that the Congress lacks understanding of the classifications of OBC, SC, and ST communities.
Measures for HIV Protection Highlighted by JMM MP: Mahua Maji's Inquiry on HIV Measures
JMM MP Mahua Maji raised concerns about the support and protection provided to HIV-positive individuals, with a focus on mothers and children. In response, Health Minister J.P. Nadda provided an update on the government's efforts to address HIV issues while ensuring patient confidentiality. He highlighted a significant reduction in HIV positivity rates among children, from 90% to just 3%, showcasing the impact of ongoing health initiatives.
Manish Tewari's Call for Reflection on China’s Bridge Construction: Tewari Seeks Deliberation on China’s Infrastructure Projects
Chandigarh MP Manish Tewari requested time to discuss the alleged construction of a bridge by China connecting the North and South Banks of Pangong Lake. Speaker Om Birla instructed Tewari to formally submit his request for a detailed discussion on this matter.
CSR Fund Utilization and Penalties Discussed: Harsh Malhotra on CSR Compliance
Questions were raised regarding the utilization of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funds and the need for a separate body to oversee veterinary medicine. Minister of State for Corporate Affairs Harsh Malhotra explained that the decision on CSR spending rests with the company's board. He assured that there are punitive measures in place for non-compliance with the Companies Act.
Concerns Over Public Sector Bank Branches
AAP MP Raghav Chhada highlighted a troubling trend of Indian public sector banks shutting down their foreign branches, with a 25% decrease reported. This raised concerns about the viability and management of these international operations.
NEET Counselling and Exam Decentralization: Anupriya Patel on NEET-UG Counselling
Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Anupriya Patel announced that NEET-UG counselling would commence on August 14 and continue in four rounds until October 26. In response to AITC MP Sagarika Ghose’s query about decentralizing the NEET exam, Patel explained that the uniform entrance test was implemented to simplify the process for students, who previously had to take multiple exams. She promised to forward suggestions regarding the return to the previous system to the Education Minister.
Parliamentary Discussions on Farmers’ Issues
The Lok Sabha focused on farmers’ issues during the Question Hour. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan addressed various concerns.
Kiren Rijiju's Response to Opposition Claims
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju countered Opposition claims regarding the release of funds for Wayanad. He clarified that funds were allocated and with the state government, emphasizing that the immediate focus should be on relief and rescue, with recovery and rehabilitation to follow.
Calls for National Disaster Declaration
Several Opposition MPs demanded that the Wayanad landslide be declared a national disaster. They sought additional financial assistance and compensation for victims’ families.
Economic Survey and Chinese FDI: Piyush Goyal on Economic Survey Views
Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal addressed Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi’s concerns about the Economic Survey’s stance on Chinese Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Goyal emphasized that the Economic Survey reflects the Chief Economic Advisor’s suggestions and is independent of government policy. He also clarified that visas for Chinese businesses are granted after thorough vetting.
Rajya Sabha Proceedings on Wayanad Tragedy: Concerns and Demands
Rajya Sabha members, including John Brittas and Jose K Mani, called for military deployment and additional support for Wayanad. Minister J.P. Nadda assured that the Centre is actively responding to the tragedy, focusing on immediate rescue and relief efforts.
Opposition Leader’s Request for Updates
Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge requested updates on the Wayanad landslide. Speaker Jagdeep Dhankhar informed the House that both the state and central governments are taking necessary measures and disallowed further discussion on the issue at that moment.
Rajya Sabha: Points of Order and Adjournment Motions
Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar addressed several points of order, including communications from H.D. Deve Gowda and objections by members. He emphasized the importance of approaching him with issues before the next session.
Adjournment Notices by Congress and IUML
Congress MP Manickam Tagore and IUML MPs filed adjournment motions to discuss the caste-based census, women’s reservation, and the Wayanad tragedy. These motions aimed to address critical delays and issues impacting these areas.
Response to Cold Storage Concerns: Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Cold Storage
Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan responded to concerns about inadequate cold storage facilities, which force farmers to sell produce at distress prices. He assured that the Agriculture Infrastructure Fund would continue to support the establishment of cold storage facilities until 2032-33.
Speaker's Appeal and Lok Sabha Proceedings: Speaker’s Appeal for Order
During the Question Hour, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urged MPs to maintain focus and order, despite disruptions from some members. The session began with an Opposition uproar, with Speaker Birla promising to address issues raised after the Question Hour.
Rajya Sabha Proceedings
Rajya Sabha proceedings commenced with Chairperson Jagdeep Dhankhar reading birthday greetings and addressing official business. Discussions centered on the Wayanad tragedy and the Howrah-Mumbai train derailment, with several members seeking detailed deliberations.
Congress and IUML Adjournment Motions
Congress MP Manickam Tagore and IUML members moved adjournment motions to address significant issues, including the caste-based census and severe floods. These motions aimed to prioritize urgent discussions on pressing national matters.
Speaker's Update on Train Derailment Investigation
Speaker Om Birla updated the Lok Sabha on the investigation into the Howrah-CSMT Express derailment, assuring members that the Rail Minister was taking necessary actions. Discussions on this issue would be considered after the Question Hour.
Motion to Appoint Member to AIIMS Nagpur Council
A motion to appoint a member to the AIIMS Nagpur Council was moved, and various papers were laid on the table of the House. The Opposition benches continued to seek discussions on pressing issues, including the train derailment.
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BJP's Defense and Counterattacks
Brij Lal's Accusations Against the Opposition
BJP MP Brij Lal accused the Congress, Samajwadi Party, and the INDIA Bloc of spreading false narratives within the country. He likened their tactics to those used by the Popular Front of India (PFI) during the CAA protests at Shaheen Bagh. Lal expressed satisfaction over Prime Minister Modi and Amit Shah's ban on the PFI, asserting that while false narratives might work once, they would not succeed a second time.
Neeraj Shekhar's Praise for PM Modi's Understanding of National Issues
BJP MP Neeraj Shekhar praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his understanding of the country's problems, particularly those faced by farmers and laborers. He emphasized that Modi's leadership has been reaffirmed by his election for a third term.
Piyush Goyal's Remarks on the INDIA Bloc
Union Minister Piyush Goyal criticized Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi's speech, asserting that the INDIA Bloc lacks nationalistic thinking and a positive agenda for the country. Goyal, also the Commerce and Industry Minister, dismissed Gandhi's claims as baseless.
JP Nadda on Agnipath and Reservations
JP Nadda, Leader of the House, accused the Opposition of attempting to position themselves as champions of OBCs. He cautioned against politicizing issues of national interest, particularly the Agnipath scheme, and urged that the Army be kept separate from political debates.
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Akhilesh Yadav's Speech in Lok Sabha
Vision for Ayodhya
Yadav expressed a bold vision for Ayodhya, asserting that once the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is out of power, the Samajwadi Party would transform Ayodhya into the "world’s best city." This statement came in response to a suggestion from former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad, who urged Yadav to share insights with the Leader of Opposition. Yadav remarked, “I do not know who their town planner or architect is, but when they (the NDA) are out of power, we shall turn Ayodhya into the world’s best city.”
Opposition to the Agniveer Scheme
Yadav vehemently opposed the Agniveer scheme, questioning its effectiveness in providing employability to the youth. In response to Hamirpur MP Anurag Thakur's claim that the scheme guarantees 100% employment and fulfills long-standing aspirations regarding one rank, one pension, Yadav challenged the need for a 10% quota for Agniveers in Uttar Pradesh and other states if the program was genuinely beneficial. He criticized the current government, suggesting that their success is largely due to the initiatives of the Samajwadi Party. “The cycle (Samajwadi Party symbol) initiatives are running your government; if not for us, where would you be?” he stated.
Concerns Over Budget and Employment Opportunities
Yadav raised critical questions regarding the state budget and its effectiveness in creating job opportunities for the youth. He inquired about the real impact of investor summits and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) related to agriculture in Uttar Pradesh. "Are the schemes in the budget providing employment opportunities to the youth?" he asked, pressing the government for clearer answers.
Agricultural Policies and Minimum Support Price (MSP)
Addressing issues related to farmers, Yadav questioned the government's commitment to providing a legal guarantee for the Minimum Support Price (MSP). “If you are claiming to provision MSP, then why not a legal guarantee about it?” he asked, while also probing whether the MSP would extend to horticulture crops. He expressed concerns over the government’s plans to distribute high-yield, climate-resilient seeds to farmers and accused the administration of reducing the size of DAP fertilizer sacks. He also questioned the effectiveness of the government's focus on nano urea and how it has benefitted farmers.
Development Initiatives and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
Yadav scrutinized the development initiatives in Uttar Pradesh, specifically regarding foreign direct investment (FDI). He questioned whether Uttar Pradesh received more than 1% of the total FDI flowing into the country and expressed disappointment over the lack of funding for new expressways in the state. He highlighted concerns about the Bundelkhand Expressway, which he stated was newly inaugurated yet remained without repair or adequate funding. Yadav called for the expressway to be extended to Haridwar to enhance connectivity.
Rising Concerns: Rail Accidents and Paper Leaks
In a critical remark about the current government’s performance, Yadav likened the increasing incidents of rail accidents to paper leaks, suggesting that both issues are vying for attention in terms of their prevalence. His comments reflect a growing frustration with governance and safety standards.
Reflecting on Electoral Results
Yadav reflected on the recent electoral results, questioning the stagnation of the country’s progress over the past decade. “If the country stands at the same place as ten years ago, would the ruling dispensation be accorded the same results?” he pondered. He noted that even Prime Minister Modi's victory margin had diminished, indicating potential public dissatisfaction.
Challenges Faced by Households
Concluding his speech, Yadav emphasized that only households truly understand the challenges of educating children and providing healthcare for the elderly. He criticized the budget for lacking focus on unemployment relief and addressing the needs of youth and rural areas. He also pointed out the alarming position of India in the Hunger Index and questioned the government about the establishment of new educational institutions in Uttar Pradesh.
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Outer Manipur MP Alfred Kan-Ngam Arthur Statement
Lack of Union Minister Presence Post-May 3
Alfred Kan-Ngam Arthur, MP for Outer Manipur, criticized the lack of Union Minister visits to Manipur following May 3. He noted that before this date, Union Ministers were frequently present.
Struggles in Refugee Camps
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Basic Amenities Crisis: Arthur highlighted the dire situation in refugee camps, where residents are struggling to obtain essential supplies like food.
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Accusations Against Chief Minister: He accused the Manipur Chief Minister of inciting violence and discord.
Call for Justice and Government Response
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Demand for Justice: Arthur emphasized his right to justice, stating that his family's efforts for the country's freedom warrant it. He questioned why the government officials have not visited the affected regions.
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Government Capability: He posed a rhetorical question about the government's ability to manage national peace if it cannot address issues in a small state like Manipur.
Urging Tourism Development
Arthur suggested that the government should promote the Northeast region on the tourism map to improve economic conditions and reduce dependency on the rest of the country.
Appeal to Prime Minister Modi
Addressing Prime Minister Modi in the Lok Sabha, Arthur urged him to listen to the suffering of women and children unable to return to their homes, contrasting this with the decade-long broadcasts of Modi’s "Mann ki Baat."
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BJP MP Bhubaneshwar Kalita on Assam Floods and Union Budget
Flood Management in Assam
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Flood Impact: BJP MP Bhubaneshwar Kalita addressed concerns about flooding in Assam, where 98 lives were lost and extensive areas were submerged.
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State Government Response: Kalita emphasized that the State government managed the situation effectively and did not request a special package. He praised the government's efforts, including dredging the Brahmaputra and its tributaries to mitigate future floods.
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Water Management: He suggested the need to enhance water body management alongside harvesting to prevent floods. He also highlighted investments in transport infrastructure, including a Rs. 352.2 crore allocation for waterway development and significant upgrades to 40,000 rail bogies.
Union Budget Assessment
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Budget Overview: Kalita described the Union Budget as “development-oriented and progressive,” with a focus on multiple sectors.
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Targeted Support: The budget aims to support various groups including the poor, youth, farmers, women, and the middle class, as well as infrastructure development.
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Poverty Alleviation: He noted ongoing schemes that have lifted 25 crore people above the poverty line and provide foodgrains to 80 crore individuals. These initiatives are set to continue for the next five years.
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Budget Discussions
The recent budget discussions have sparked a range of opinions from various political figures, each offering insights and criticisms regarding different aspects of the proposed fiscal policies.
No Relief for Student Loan Repayers: Karti Chidambaram's Critique
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Concerns About Student Loans: Karti Chidambaram has expressed significant dissatisfaction with the government's handling of student loan repayments. He criticized the lack of relief measures for students who are unable to repay their loans due to the ongoing unemployment crisis in India. According to Chidambaram, the government’s decision to remove indexation, which adjusts payments for inflation, exacerbates financial difficulties for borrowers.
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Budget Criticism: Chidambaram argued that the government’s approach reflects a disconnect from the realities faced by many Indians. He highlighted that the tax relief offered—₹17,500 annually, translating to about ₹47 per day—is insufficient to address daily expenses. In his view, this meager relief is inadequate and warrants rejection by the House.
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GST on Health Insurance: Chidambaram criticized the 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) levied on health insurance premiums. He highlighted this as a significant issue, equating it to taxing essential health services. He argued that such taxation exacerbates the problem of underinsurance in India and called for its removal from the Budget.
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Unemployment and Government Vacancies: Chidambaram also raised concerns about the government's failure to address unemployment and the existing 10 lakh vacancies within the central government. He suggested that the Finance Minister, lacking direct constituency engagement, failed to consider the pressing issues of joblessness and inflation, leading to a Budget that lacks empathy and practical solutions.
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Criticism of the Prime Minister's Approach: Karti Chidambaram criticized the Budget for its perceived lack of compassion and empathy, attributing this to the Prime Minister's ineffective leadership. He noted the Prime Minister’s failure to form a new Cabinet and the continued appointment of the same ministers, which he believes has led to a disconnect with the everyday problems of inflation and unemployment.
Job Creation Focus in Budget 2024: JP Nadda's Perspective
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Employment Initiatives: JP Nadda, in his address to the Rajya Sabha, emphasized that the 2024 Budget is primarily focused on job creation. He highlighted an employment-linked incentive scheme aimed at generating millions of new jobs across the country. Nadda also pointed to the Budget’s commitment to skill development, agricultural productivity, manufacturing, the service sector, and digital infrastructure.
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Inclusive and Visionary Approach: Union Minister JP Nadda described the Budget as inclusive and visionary, focusing on sustainable development and economic resilience. He praised the Budget for its emphasis on holistic growth and long-term objectives.
Nagaland's Road Connectivity: Congressional Critique
S. Supongmeren Jamir, Congress MP from Nagaland, raised concerns in the Lok Sabha about the absence of mentions regarding road connectivity improvements in the Northeast region within the Budget. He emphasized the need for enhanced infrastructure to support regional development.
Dismantling Permanent Employment: CPI(M) Criticism
CPI(M) MP A. A. Rahim criticized the Centre's approach to employment, claiming that it undermines the concept of permanent employment in favor of contract and outsourced roles. He highlighted rising unemployment and food inflation as pressing issues exacerbated by the government's policies.
Balanced Budget and Vision for 2047: BJP's Dinesh Sharma
BJP MP Dinesh Sharma praised the Budget as balanced and aligned with the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) by 2047. He asserted that the Budget would help achieve this vision by reducing deficit financing and fostering youth development.
Dignity, Justice, and Equality: RJD MP Manoj Kumar Jha's Critique
RJD MP Prof. Manoj Kumar Jha questioned the Budget's reflection of dignity, justice, and equality. He expressed concerns over the lack of consultations with various stakeholders and criticized the Budget for not addressing issues of income inequality. Jha also called for a legal guarantee for Minimum Support Prices (MSP) and emphasized the need for a caste census to better target policies.
Budget Allocation for Northeast: RS MP K. Vanlalvena
MNF MP K. Vanlalvena highlighted the significant Budget allocation for the Northeast, with ₹97,372 crores designated for the Ministry of Road, Transport, and Highways across the eight states in the region. He emphasized that the Budget is not limited to just a few states but includes substantial support for the Northeast.
Maharashtra's Budget Allocation: NCP MP Praful Patel's Defense
NCP MP Praful Patel defended the Budget's provisions for Maharashtra, advising critics to examine the fine print. He pointed out recent developments, such as the inauguration of a new port and the start of iron mining in Gadchiroli, as evidence of the Budget’s benefits for the state.
Economic Performance and GST Collection: BJP MP Dhananjay Bhimrao Mahadik
BJP MP Dhananjay Bhimrao Mahadik countered opposition claims of a national crisis, highlighting improvements in GST collection and the growth of start-ups since 2014. He emphasized that these economic indicators reflect a positive trajectory for India’s economy.
“Why such a step-motherly attitude towards Kerala?” RS MP Jose K. Mani says
KC(M) MP Jose K. Mani criticized the Union Budget, describing it as favoring only two states and ignoring Kerala. He emphasized that natural calamities and their management have taken a political turn, which he sees as a deviation from the principle of "sab ka saath, sab ka vikaas" (development for all). Mani pointed out that despite Kerala's significant contribution through cash crops, the state suffers from annual natural calamities without sufficient relief from the central government. He also noted the absence of schemes aimed at uplifting the poor, youth, women, and farmers in the budget.
Haris Beeran on 'Double-engine Sarkar'
IUML MP Haris Beeran criticized the notion of a 'double-engine sarkar' (government) as unconstitutional, arguing that Kerala's needs have been overlooked in the budget. He mentioned that requests for funds for an international trans-shipment container terminal, national highways, AIIMS, support for coconut and rubber farmers, and measures to combat sea erosion have not been addressed. Beeran compared Kerala's situation with the budget allocations for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, suggesting that the central government is being influenced by its allies.
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Indian Railways Discussions
Mahua Maji: Railways as India’s Lifeline
During a discussion in the Rajya Sabha, JMM MP Mahua Maji expressed her concerns regarding the increasing number of rail accidents. She highlighted a recent incident where 18 coaches derailed, resulting in the tragic loss of two lives. Maji criticized Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for neglecting to mention the railways in her budget speech, despite the essential role of rail transport in India's economy and connectivity.
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Key Points from Mahua Maji's Address:
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The need for local trains to generate employment and combat trafficking and migration issues.
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Criticism of the Central Government for failing to include provisions for tribal populations in the budget.
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The impact of the Forest Conservation Bill on tribal livelihoods.
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A call for the government to permit missionary schools to receive FCRA funding, emphasizing their contribution to quality education.
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Sudheer Gupta: Acknowledging Progress
In contrast to the safety concerns raised, BJP MP Sudheer Gupta from Mandsaur praised the Indian Railways for its significant achievements over the past decade. He emphasized that India now possesses the fourth largest rail network in the world, following China, the United States, and Russia.
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Highlights from Sudheer Gupta's Remarks:
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The commendable initiative of converting traditional rail toilets to bio-toilets, which enhances cleanliness and protects rail tracks.
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Recognition of Union Ministers Piyush Goyal and Ashwini Vaishnaw for their contributions to railway improvements.
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A critique of the Congress party for misrepresenting British rail achievements as their own.
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Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar: A Tragic Reminder
TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar called for a moment of silence in honor of the victims of recent train derailments. She pointed out that the Union Budget did not allocate funds specifically for railway safety, despite claims of a substantial allocation of Rs 2.62 lakh crores for the sector.
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Safety Recommendations by Dastidar:
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The implementation of manned railway crossing gates.
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Introduction of seatbelts for passengers in rail coaches.
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Adoption of the KAVACH system to enhance safety.
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Investments in station redevelopment and consistent maintenance of railway tracks.
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Emphasis on the rapid development of new tracks and ergonomic trains, like the Vande Bharat Express, while advocating for precautionary measures to prevent accidents.
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Sudip Bandopadhyay: An Urgent Call for Action
MP Sudip Bandopadhyay from the All India Trinamool Congress raised alarms about the alarming frequency of railway accidents in India during the Lok Sabha session. He specifically referred to the recent derailment of the Howrah-Mumbai Mail, which occurred early in the morning, leading to two fatalities and numerous injuries.
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Bandopadhyay’s Concerns:
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Expressed frustration over the lack of attention to safety issues, citing that accidents have become a routine occurrence.
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Criticized the absence of Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw during the session and demanded updates on the response to the derailment.
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Highlighted the urgent necessity for comprehensive safety measures and a proactive approach from railway authorities.
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Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Address to the Lok Sabha
Vision for a Developed India by 2047
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the government's commitment to transforming India into a developed nation by the year 2047. She described the Budget 2024 as the "first step towards Viksit Bharat," marking the beginning of a series of strategic initiatives aimed at achieving this ambitious goal.
Increased Sectoral Allocations
Contrary to criticisms, the Finance Minister highlighted significant increases in budget allocations across various sectors. She noted:
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Agriculture: Allocation has increased from 0.30 lakh crore in 2013-14 to 1.52 lakh crore in 2023-24, reflecting an additional 8,000 crores compared to the previous year.
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Education and Employment: The allocation has grown from 0.85 lakh crore in 2013-14 to 1.48 lakh crore, a 23% increase.
Addressing Opposition Concerns on State Allocations
Responding to opposition claims of neglecting states in the budget, Sitharaman pointed out that 26 states were not mentioned in the 2014-15 budget speech, yet were not ignored. She assured that ministers have been dispatched to each state to clarify their budgetary allocations and highlighted several key projects funded across various states.
Agricultural Reforms and MSP
Sitharaman addressed queries on agriculture, stating that the allocation has risen from Rs 21,934 crores in 2013-14 to 1.23 lakh crores in 2024-25, a fivefold increase. She underscored the distribution of over 3.2 lakh crores to 11 crore farmers under the PM Kisan scheme. She criticized the previous UPA government for not adopting the MS Swaminathan commission’s recommendation on Minimum Support Price (MSP), which the current government has implemented.
Employment Creation and Inflation Control
Addressing unemployment, Sitharaman cited an SBI report indicating that the NDA government created 12.5 crore jobs over the past decade, compared to 2.3 crore jobs by the UPA government in the same period. She contrasted the inflation rates, noting that during the UPA tenure, inflation frequently exceeded 9%, whereas under the current government, India's inflation rate from 2020-23 has been significantly lower than the global average.
Questioning Global Indices
The Finance Minister questioned the credibility of global indices like the Global Hunger Index, which rank conflict-ridden countries higher than India. She argued that such indices fail to reflect the reality of India's situation, where the government is providing free ration to millions of citizens.
Minority Budget Allocation
Addressing concerns over minority budget cuts, Sitharaman clarified that there has been no reduction. The actual expenditure for 2022-23 was 803 crores, and the estimates for 2024-25 are 3,183 crores, which is 85 crores higher than the previous year.
Education and Intellectual Capability
In a defense of her educational background, Sitharaman responded to criticisms by affirming the quality of Indian universities like JNU and Calcutta University, equating them with their Western counterparts. She dismissed allegations of intellectual inferiority and assured the release of a white paper to substantiate her claims regarding West Bengal's governance.
Support for Wealth Creators
Sitharaman defended Indian entrepreneurs, stating that a conspiracy against wealth creators is detrimental to the nation's economic progress. She emphasized the importance of supporting business leaders and maintaining a positive image for foreign investors.
Halwa Ceremony Tradition
Defending the Halwa ceremony photo-op, Sitharaman explained the historical significance of this tradition, where budget creation staff were sequestered to ensure confidentiality. She recounted instances of personal sacrifice by officials and questioned the opposition's focus on caste divisions within this context.
Jammu and Kashmir Appropriation Bill
Finally, Sitharaman tabled the Jammu and Kashmir Appropriation Bill for 2024, which was passed via voice vote in the Lok Sabha, ensuring the continuation of funding for the region’s development.
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Anurag Thakur's Controversial Speech in Lok Sabha
Dispute Over Caste Census
During a recent session in the Lok Sabha, BJP MP Anurag Thakur's speech sparked a significant uproar. Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi sharply responded, stating, "Insult me as much as you want, but we will ensure the passage of the caste census."
Thakur's Critique of Rahul Gandhi
In his address, Anurag Thakur criticized Rahul Gandhi, urging him to be a genuine minister rather than just a "reel" one. Thakur remarked, "To be a real minister, you must speak the truth. There are some who, despite their accidental Hindu identity, are preaching about the Mahabharat by chance."
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Both houses continue discussion on the Union Budget
Following the Question Hour, the Rajya Sabha is now having a general discussion on the Union Budget 2024-25 and the Budget for the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.
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Rajya Sabha Zero Hour: Key Issues
During the Rajya Sabha Zero Hour, several pressing issues were raised:
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Vivek Tankha addressed the shortage of NCERT textbooks.
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S Selvaganabathy demanded the establishment of a textile park in Puducherry.
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Dola Sen called for a pending request to rename West Bengal to Bangla.
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A proposal was also made to establish an Allahabad High Court bench in Agra.
